phonon

noun

pho·​non ˈfō-ˌnän How to pronounce phonon (audio)
: a quantum of vibrational energy (as in a crystal)

Examples of phonon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Although the phonons were observed moving just 250 nanometers in the experiment, this distance is huge for an experiment of this type and is sufficient evidence for phonon focusing, the researchers concluded. — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 24 Aug. 2026 In ordinary metals, phonons are frequently disrupted by collisions with one another and with electrons, reducing their ability to dissipate heat. — Rachel Nuwer, Scientific American, 11 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for phonon

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Russian fonon, from Greek phōnḗ "sound made by something living, voice" + Russian -on -on entry 2 — more at phono-

First Known Use

1932, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of phonon was in 1932

Rhymes for phonon

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Browse Nearby Words

phonomotor
phonon
phonopathy
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Cite this Entry

“Phonon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phonon. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on phonon

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about phonon

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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